UV curing process

UV curable chemistries must be cured completely, consistently and efficiently. This yields improved surface properties, aesthetic appeal, durability and function to components and products.

  • Does your curing process need to be as fast as possible?
  • Do you want to save energy when curing?
  • Do you need to precisely adjust the UV radiation to the formulation?
  • Do you need to continue processing as soon as possible?

Optimized UV systems can do this. See how it works!

How does UV curing work?

UV curing process

Ultraviolet curing (commonly known as UV curing) is a photochemical process in which high-intensity ultraviolet light is used to instantly cure or “dry” inks, coatings or adhesives.

UV formulations are liquid monomers and oligomers mixed with a small percent of photoinitiators, and then exposed to UV energy. In a few seconds, the formulation - inks, coatings or adhesives instantly “harden” or cure, ready for the next processing step.

Your advantages

UV curable inks and coatings were first used as a better alternative to solvent-based products. Conventional heat- and air-drying works by solvent evaporation which shrinks the initial coating application by more than 50% and creates environmental pollutants.

  • High quality: Improved properties such as scratch and chemical resistance, adhesion and bond strength.
  • Environmentally friendly due to solvent-free technology and less energy
  • Faster production speeds and capacity
  • Immediately ready for next process step
  • Enables curing processes on heat sensitive substrates
  • Easy handling due to modular design
  • 2D or 3D component geometries possible
  • Less floor space needed
  • Reduced scrap increases yield rates

Applications areas

UV curing technology is used to cure inks, coatings and adhesives on substrates such as:

Curing properties of UVA, UVB and UVC radiation